What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine practice that involves the precise insertion of ultra fine needles into specific points on the body. Based on the concept of balancing energy or ‘Qi’ that flows along pathways in the body known as meridians.

The principle of acupuncture is to promote the flow of Qi in the meridians and restore balance in the body. The points where needles are inserted are chosen based on the individual’s health condition. The flow of Qi can become blocked or stagnant for many reasons including injury, emotions, diet, lifestyle and stress. The insertion of these needles enables the patients body to react enabling the free flow of Qi and encouraging the body to heal itself.

Acupuncture is widely recognised for addressing a wide range of health concerns offering benefits such as pain relief, stress reduction and holistic well-being. Research has shown that acupuncture does this through:

• Relaxing muscles and encouraging micro circulation in target areas.

• Increasing the release of endorphins that regulate physical and emotional stress responses such as pain, heart rate, digestion, anxiety and blood pressure.

• Acupuncture has been proven to be effective for pain by releasing biochemicals involved in pain reduction. Acupuncture is recommended for pain by NICE.